Linear fluorescent lamps – scope and exclusions

Linear fluorescent lamps must comply with minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) set out in AS/NZS 4782.2:2004. This page describes which specific products are affected, and what the MEPS levels are.

Products included the MEPS

The MEPS for linear fluorescent lamps has been in effect since 2002.

The MEPS applies to FD and FDH lamps that:

  • range from 550mm to 1500mm in length (inclusive), 
  • have a nominal power of 16 Watts or more, and
  • are within the scope of AS/NZS4782.1:2004. 

Products excluded from the MEPS

The MEPS does not apply to linear fluorescent lamps that are clearly not intended for general illumination, specifically the following types.

  • Lamps with a dominant colour or with an output that is predominately outside the visible spectrum.
  • Lamps for colour matching and that have a colour rendering index greater than 90 and a colour appearance approximating to a point on the black body locus.
  • Lamps that are specifically for use in an industrial or agricultural process.
  • Lamps for medical applications. 
  • Lamps that have been given written exemption by the relevant regulatory authority on the grounds that they are for a specific purpose other than general illumination and are clearly distinguishable from lamps for general illumination.
  • Linear fluorescent lamps designed specifically for use in flame-proof luminaries (Regulators Ruling 1A).

MEPS levels

The text and table below, which are extracts from AZ/NZS 4782.2:2004, specify MEPS levels for linear fluorescent lamps.

Extract from the Standard on MEPS levels

When measured in accordance with AS/NZS 4782.1 the initial efficacy (at 100 hours) and the maintained efficacy (at 5000 hours) shall exceed the values specified in the table below. Lamps shall also have a Colour Rendering Index [CRI] which exceeds the value in the table below.

MINIMUM LAMP EFFICACY AND COLOUR RENDERING REQUIREMENTS
Lamp nominal length L (mm) mandatory
 550 ≤ L < 700 700 ≤ L < 1150 1150 ≤ L < 1350
1350 ≤ L < 1500
Lamp typical power (watts) (informative)
 16 - 24 17 - 40 28 - 50 35 - 80
Initial efficacy

Maintained efficacy

 F100 ≥ 66.0
  and
FM ≥ 57.5
 F100 ≥ 74.0
  and
FM ≥ 61.0
 F100 ≥ 80.0
  and
FM ≥ 70.0
 F100 ≥ 85.0
  and
FM ≥ 70.0
Minimum CRI  79  79  79  79

© Copyright Standards New Zealand 2011. Content from AS/NZS 4582.2:2004 has been reproduced with permission from Standards New Zealand under Copyright Licence 882.

 

Disclaimer: This extract from AS/NZS 4782.2:2004 is reproduced with permission from Standards New Zealand under copyright licence 000882. The content of this extract is solely for information and provides an overview of the requirements in force in New Zealand at the time of writing. Regulatory changes and differing interpretations of the regulations mean that the information given here cannot necessarily be relied upon. The current version of the relevant Standard must be referred to for definitive information. To obtain a complete copy of this Standard, please visit the Standards New Zealand website.

 

From the Resource Centre

Related information available: